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Entry Level job in lieu of returnship?
Hi everyone,
I've been looking for returnships in Chicago, but there are literally no returnships available here right now. As I was perusing jobs on websites, I happened to see a job posting for an Entry Level Software Engineer – No Experience Required – Tech Apprenticeships, in my city. My background is in programming and IT (20+ years experience), but I have an 8 year gap in my resume.
Would a hiring manager at a company consider someone like me for a position like this? I would *love* to get into software engineering, but don't want to apply if my application will get tossed in the trash. I know they're probably looking for younger candidates, but would they consider someone who is looking to re-launch their career?
Any thoughts are greatly appreciated. Thanks very much!
ParentsPivotReturn to work with strength and clarity.
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05/22/20 at 3:28AM UTC
Hello everyone! I work with a lot of return to work candidates who often consider pivoting to a different career after their career pause. I agree with Lynne's point and wanted to be a little bit more specific about the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that are typically at the front line in reviewing resumes. They usually don't pick up a resume with a gap in work experience (meaning no "position") on your resume in the last 3 years. I don't think that you should lie if you don't have anything. I think you should use this as an opportunity to talk about the work that you have done during your career pause. Whether you were paid or not you were likely doing work that developed skills that would be transferrable to a job during volunteer experiences. If you were not volunteering then "own the pause" and state that you were a stay at home parent. Love the feedback to be honest. Return to work candidates have SOOOO much to offer including a level of professionalism and often a past record of professional success that entry level candidates don't have straight out of school. That is an asset. Agree with addressing that you are interested in this position, committed to staying with the right company, and not wanting to leave if that is authentic to you. Best of luck! I am always happy to chat with returners so feel free to reach out for a free 30 minute exploratory call. https://www.parentspivot.com/newsletter-signup
Abigail KellyHelping people get back to work.
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05/18/20 at 2:02PM UTC
Hi all! For those of you looking to learn more about returnships, check out the non-profit organization Path Forward at pathforward.org/participant. You can sign up for our newsletter and be alerted when there are new returnship opportunities in a city near you. While we don't currently have opportunities in the Chicago metro area, we are constantly working to develop them across the country. Subscribe and be the first to know when new opportunities become available. You can also follow our FGB group page here: https://fairygodboss.com/groups/B1p3Kw0LS/path-forward
Pharberknockn07Curriculum & Training Development in Kansas City
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05/17/20 at 2:38PM UTC
Similar to above- when we were hiring for a more entry level position, we had a good handful of applicants that were either way over qualified or in the middle of a career switch. We searched their LinkedIn profiles in addition to their resumes and the only one we called in had a brief explanation of their switch and acknowledged they knew they were starting over but excited to learn quickly and use their years of experience in relevant ways.
Jane S
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05/17/20 at 5:48PM UTC
Thank you! This gives me great insight - and I am going to include this on my profile.
Jessica HallProduct Owner | Agilist | Dog Mom
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05/17/20 at 2:33PM UTC
This is the first that I heard the term returnship. I love the concept! So, I don't have any direct experience in the matter, but I think there are a lot of reasons a job listing may say "entry level" - could be they want a recent college graduate because of what they bring to the table, could be they're setting salary expectations, could be they're setting the expectation for the nature of the job (ie do as your told vs. drive strategy), or a million other reasons.
I would say tailor your resume and definitely address it in the cover letter. If you explain why you're looking for an entry level position, then I would expect that they are more likely to consider whether you fit the reason why that position is entry level.
Cenobre
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05/17/20 at 1:12PM UTC
Hi Allusin I would mention the gap on Facebook he cover letter or on your resume. I recently was unconsidered for a position because I was too experienced for it. Hiring managers are afraid of hiring someone too experienced for an entry level in position because they think you will only stay until you find something better. And that will result in Working on a replacement.
If I were you, I would explain that you were not working for the past 8 years and are looking for a come back position, that is this one you are applying. ? good luck!!
Cenobre
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05/17/20 at 1:13PM UTC
Sorry the autocorrect changed your name!
Allyson DruckerWriter, teacher, researcher eager to relocate
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05/19/20 at 2:40PM UTC
No worries, Cenobre! I appreciate your answer and feedback! I like the idea of a more well-rounded explanation. Thank you!
Lynne CoganCareer Coach for Realizing Professional Dreams
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05/16/20 at 5:05PM UTC
Recruiters and hiring managers are individuals. Therefore, some will consider you for an entry-level position and others won't.
Another question is: If you apply online, will your application be sent on to a human if your resume shows an 8-year gap in experience? That would depend on how the screening software is programmed. But I wouldn't depend on it. Networking is more practical and is likely to achieve greater results.
In the meantime, what have you been doing to prepare for re-entering the workforce? Are you taking classes in software engineering? Have you brushed up on a language you know or taught yourself a new language? Have you gotten a certification? Have you volunteered in IT? Do you participate in any professional organizations? Have you researched to determine where you want to work?
If you want to make yourself marketable today, show what you are capable of doing today and you won't have to take an entry-level position.
Jane S
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05/15/20 at 3:09PM UTC
Thanks very much for your thoughts, Sharon. I've been mulling it over, and you've given me some valuable insight. Thanks again!
Allyson DruckerWriter, teacher, researcher eager to relocate
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05/14/20 at 9:51PM UTC
Thank you, Sharon! That is all very helpful, and positive, and appreciated!! I love, and agree, with the idea that the professionalism that comes with age is something to leverage. I've never thought of it that way, and I am pleased to reconsider it in that light!
Thank you again.
Best,
Allyson
Sharon ScottEnterprise Technical Pre Sales Specialist
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05/14/20 at 6:07PM UTC (Edited)
I believe that managers should consider all levels of the work force however I know in some cases they want new graduates because they're interested in what they can bring to the table. They think they are getting new ideas being taught in school via the new graduate which is 1 reason they pursue them.
Personally, I would go for it. The worse they can say is no and you move on to the next opportunity. As well, you never know what other jobs they might have open that they can refer you to.
I would also recommend that you ensure you present all your successes and accomplishments that you've had in your working years. As well, present yourself professionally - use templates, spellchecker and other tools to help with that. That is actually something that the younger generation lacks that we can leverage.
You'll do great!!! You got this.
Best,
~ Sharon
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